Ferrari driver Leclerc receives a fine for language: A look behind the motorsport theater

The Formula 1 stewards have imposed a fine of 10,000 euros on Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc following a verbal slip-up after the Mexican Grand Prix. Notably, half of the amount is suspended for twelve months, provided the Monegasque keeps his language in check. Interestingly, three-time world champion Max Verstappen from Red Bull was recently assigned community service after using inappropriate language at a press conference in Singapore. However, the race stewards in São Paulo determined that Leclerc's offense was less severe. Interestingly, Verstappen made a subtle allusion to Leclerc's faux pas without directly naming him. This occurred in an FIA press conference: "Apparently, it's only applicable to me because, after the race in Mexico, someone swore," said the Dutchman. Leclerc was thus summoned before the judiciary after a report from the FIA's media delegate was submitted. The report revealed that Leclerc lost his composure in an emotional moment when he was overtaken by McLaren driver Lando Norris due to a driving error. Even during the session, he expressed his regret and took his responsibility as a role model seriously. Compared to Verstappen's previous offense—where the condition of his car was the subject of his displeasure—Leclerc presented his mistake as a one-off slip. The FIA had previously, through President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, appealed to all drivers to moderate their language, comparing it to rapper language.